Product classification
HS code for Camera flash: 9006.69
Photographic flashlight apparatus, n.e.c. in heading no. 9006.
Classification of camera flash under HS 9006.69
The classification of camera flash units under HS code 9006.69 is governed by the Harmonized System's General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), specifically GRI 1 and 6. Heading 9006 covers photographic cameras and flashlight apparatus. Within this heading, the system distinguishes between different technologies used to produce light. Subheading 9006.61 is reserved for discharge lamp (electronic) flashlight apparatus, which typically involves a gas-filled tube. Subheading 9006.69 acts as the residual category for all other photographic flashlight apparatus. This includes traditional chemical flashbulbs, flashcubes, and other light-emitting devices designed specifically for photographic use that do not meet the criteria for discharge lamps. The classification is determined by the primary function of the device: providing a momentary burst of light synchronized with the camera shutter. It is important to note that this code applies to the apparatus itself, whether imported as a standalone unit or as a part of a larger photographic system, provided it is not integrated permanently into a camera body. The technical distinction between a discharge lamp and other flash types is the primary driver for selecting 9006.69 over 9006.61. Furthermore, the classification excludes general-purpose lighting equipment, which falls under Chapter 94, or portable electric lamps of heading 8513. By placing these items in Chapter 90, the HS system recognizes their status as precision photographic instruments rather than simple electrical goods. This ensures that customs duties and trade statistics accurately reflect the specialized nature of photographic equipment.
- Covers
- Flashbulbs and flashcubes
- Flash bars and similar disposable flash units
- Battery-operated flash units not using discharge lamps
- Slave flash triggers and auxiliary flash units
- Magnesium ribbons or powders for photographic lighting
- Also under 9006.69
- GE Flashcubes
- Sylvania Blue Dot Flashbulbs
- some basic continuous light kits
- vintage camera flash attachments
Codes often confused with 9006.69
Common mistake. Camera flashes are frequently misclassified under HS code 8539, which covers electric filament or discharge lamps. However, 8539 is for the bulbs themselves, whereas 9006.69 covers the entire flashlight apparatus. Another common error is using 9006.61, which is strictly for electronic discharge lamp flashes (strobe lights). If the flash uses a different technology, 9006.69 is the correct residual code.
Top exporters and importers of HS 900669 (the code used for camera flash), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 900669 (the code used for camera flash) in UN Comtrade data was Hong Kong, with 54% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Hong Kong, with 64% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 900669, not only camera flash.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Hong Kong $73M 54% of world exports
- 2 China $25M 19% of world exports
- 3 United States $10M 7.6% of world exports
World total: $136M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Hong Kong $158M 64% of world imports
- 2 United States $27M 11% of world imports
- 3 Germany $7.5M 3.0% of world imports
World total: $248M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for camera flash
Brazil classifies camera flash under NCM 9006.69.00: HS 9006.69 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about camera flash
What is the HS code for Camera flash?
The HS code for Camera flash is 900669 (Photographic flashlight apparatus; n.e.c. in heading no. 9006). The HS code for camera flash apparatus not elsewhere specified is 9006.69. Electronic discharge flashes are under 9006.61.
How do I classify Camera flash for customs?
Camera flash is classified under HS code 900669 — Photographic flashlight apparatus; n.e.c. in heading no. 9006. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are LED ring lights classified here?
No, LED ring lights used for continuous lighting are typically classified under HS code 9405 as lamps and lighting fittings, as they do not function as a momentary flash apparatus.
Which countries are the top exporters of camera flash (HS 900669)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 900669 (the code used for camera flash) in UN Comtrade data were Hong Kong ($73M, 54% of world exports), China ($25M) and the United States ($10M). World exports came to about $136M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of camera flash (HS 900669)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 900669 (the code used for camera flash) in UN Comtrade data were Hong Kong ($158M, 64% of world imports), the United States ($27M) and Germany ($7.5M). World imports came to about $248M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Camera flash the same in all countries?
The base HS code 900669 for Camera flash is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for camera flash in Brazil?
In Brazil, camera flash (HS 900669) is classified under NCM 9006.69.00.